Rather than fixating on forming the government and seizing power, the NC should focus entirely on undertaking comprehensive reforms. This includes fostering internal unity, discouraging nepotism, combatting corruption, and reconnecting with its grassroots base
Against the backdrop of Nepal's struggle for democracy and sovereignty from autocratic Rana regime, the Nepali National Congress (NNC) was formed in 1946. Amidst subsequent transformations, the party found its enduring identity as the Nepali Congress (NC) in 1950 that was firmly committed to championing democratic principles. Throughout its journey, the NC has remained a steadfast voice for democracy, justice and progress, reflecting the collective aspirations of the people during critical junctures in the nation's history.
During the Panchayat era, the NC encountered formidable challenges in its quest to defend democratic principles and champion political freedoms under a repressive regime. Leaders, activists and supporters of the NC endured arrests, imprisonment, torture, harassment and assassination by state authorities. Despite facing relentless repression and adversity, the party remained at the forefront of the pro-democracy movement, playing a pivotal role, together with leftist forces, in laying the groundwork for the eventual overthrow of the Panchayat system.
The interim government formed under the premiership of KP Bhattarai following the restoration of the multiparty system in 1990 initially demonstrated promise in fostering good governance and was anticipated to steer Nepal towards a path of progress. However, the unexpected conquest of Bhattarai in subsequent elections marked the ascendancy of GP Koirala, whose leadership led the party to grapple with a plethora of challenges. This resulted in a decline in the NC's political sway within the nation. Internally, the party was beset by fragmentation, rampant nepotism and state-sponsored corruption, exacerbating divisions and factionalism that have sapped its unity and ability to present a cohesive front. Moreover, the NC has struggled to effectively tackle pressing socio-economic issues such as poverty, unemployment and inadequate infrastructure, failing to deliver tangible improvements to people's lives and fostering disillusionment among the voters.
The erosion of electoral support, particularly among youngsters seeking alternative political avenues, has further undermined the party's traditional base. This decline is attributed to widespread perceptions of corruption, nepotism and a disconnect between the leadership and grassroots concerns. As a result, the NC's influence has waned, necessitating introspection and reform to revitalise its standing and relevance in Nepal's political landscape.
The tradition of nepotism, factionalism and state-sponsored corruption initiated by GP Koirala continued to thrive within the party even after his demise. The incumbent president of the NC, Sher Bahadur Deuba, proved to be Koirala's steadfast heir that has exacerbated the leadership crisis within the party. Unfortunately, the party lacks dynamic and visionary leaders in the core capable of inspiring confidence and mobilising support. Electoral setbacks in recent years have undermined the party's institutional strength and credibility as a viable political alternative at both the national and local levels. Hence, the NC had to form an unconstitutional and immoral pre-electoral coalition with the Maoists.
The coalition between the NC and the Maoists was inherently unnatural due to the stark contrast in their ideologies. This alliance appeared to be driven solely by a pursuit of power play rather than a genuine commitment to serving the people's interests. Despite experiencing multiple betrayals from Maoist honcho Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Deuba patiently awaited his turn for premiership. However, when Dahal suddenly swapped sides with KP Sharma Oli, Deuba's hopes of ascending to the top executive post for the record sixth time got shattered. Yet, paradoxically, this setback may well be a blessing in disguise for the NC to rejuvenate itself and recommit to serving the people's interests wholeheartedly.
Now, it is imperative for the NC to conduct a thorough retrospective analysis of its past activities and earnestly work towards rectifying its weaknesses. The initial and most crucial step ought to involve the voluntary retirement of aging, corrupt and incompetent leaders, paving the way for dynamic, capable and forward-thinking young individuals. The party must also engage directly with the people, understanding their challenges and aspirations firsthand. To achieve this, high-level leaders should be deployed to all local bodies nationwide for a minimum of six months. This initiative should serve as the foundation for the NC to effectively address identity-based grievances, particularly concerning ethnicity, caste and regional disparities, which have alienated certain segments of the population and fueled support for identity-centric political movements. Additionally, the party must address the internal weaknesses, confront external challenges, and adapt to broader shifts in the country's political landscape. The party must unequivocally denounce both financial and moral corruption.
Rather than fixating on forming the government and seizing power, the NC should focus entirely on undertaking comprehensive reforms. This includes fostering internal unity, discouraging nepotism, combatting state-sponsored corruption, and reconnecting with its grassroots base. Most importantly, the NC must articulate a compelling vision for Nepal's future that resonates with the aspirations of the people, prioritising their well-being above all else. This strategic approach will breathe new life into the NC, positioning it as the dominant force in the forthcoming periodic elections scheduled for 2084. However, failure to acknowledge the ground reality and persisting again in power struggles will lead to the inevitable obsolescence of Nepal's foremost democratic party.
Dr Joshi is a senior scientist and independent opinion maker based in Germany
pushpa.joshi@gmail.com